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It's a one day event where people who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless can connect with local services to get some help.

Everywhere you look, there seems to be a helping hand.

"This is an event where we are able to get venders and service providers in the La Crosse area all together to distribute and hand out information, and items and things to individuals in La Crosse,” said Becky Koski with the La Crosse Homeless Coalition.

The one-stop shop is exactly what Carlene Fibeger needs.

"When I woke up, my phone, his phone and two tablets were taken,” said Fibeger.

On Monday, Fibeger had some items taken from her apartment and is looking for some legal help.

"I have $500 deductible through my renters insurance that I can't pay,” said Fibeger.

After going from booth to booth, she eventually lands on one that can help.

"I need some kind of legal help because we had some things stolen from my place,” said Fibeger

"Would you like me to write down a referral and let you know who is available for that?” said the Great Rivers 211 Vender.

Right away, the vender starts helping Fibeger.

"In the La Crosse area there is a free bar association,” said the vender. "I will write their phone numbers and they have intake hours on Tuesday and I will write those down."

Within minutes, Fibeger had options and more importantly, they are options that fit into her budget.

"I would have to go to one that is free because I am on a limited budget, I work but I only have limited hours,” said Fibeger.

Now that Fibeger has that taken care of, she can spend the rest of her time getting to know other venders.

"Just to know if I ever need something sometime, I know what's out there,” said Fibeger.

That is exactly the goal of this event: to pair people with the services they need to get back on their feet.

Organizers say there are 26 vendors at the event, as well as free haircuts and medical personnel performing routine health screenings.

Copyright 2014 by WKBT News8000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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